Babangida Urges Super Eagles to Target AFCON Glory After World Cup Setback

Former Super Eagles star Tijani Babangida has called on Nigeria to turn the pain of missing the 2026 World Cup into motivation for winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. He said the failure to qualify was “very painful to digest,” but insisted that AFCON offers a perfect chance for redemption.

Speaking to Tribal Football, Babangida stressed that “the next target is the AFCON tournament, which can be used to redeem the image of Nigerian football.” He urged the Nigeria Football Federation, coaches, and players to work together and stay fully committed to winning the trophy.

Babangida admitted the competition will be tough, especially with several World Cup-bound African teams involved. Even so, he believes the Super Eagles “may surprise the world and go all the way,” adding that he sees Nigeria “playing in the final, at least,” and possibly lifting the Cup for the first time in over 12 years.